The library system is moving to a new mobile app! The current library mobile app will not be available after February. This only relates to the library’s mobile app (used on phones and tablets). You can still connect to the library through your desktop, laptop, or mobile device’s web browser at https://rcpl.bibliocommons.com/ Projected date for the new mobile app is March. We apologize for the inconvenience

Being There

Chance is a pure-hearted gardener forced out of moneyed seclusion and into the urban wilds of Washington, D.C., after the death of his employer. Shocked to discover that the real world doesn't respond to the click of a remote, Chance stumbles haplessly into celebrity after being taken under the wing of a tycoon who mistakes his new protégé's mumbling about horticulture for sagacious pronouncements on life and politics, and whose wife targets Chance as the object of her desire.

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I love this movie and for a single reason: It tells a story with minimal exposition and simplicity. Peter Sellers plays his part with admirable restraint and the rest of the production elevates his performance. Sometimes I think that a good drama does not need multiple story arcs or fancy effects to resonate with audiences. This film shows the truth of that powerfully, while leaving it up to us (the viewers) to create meaning from what we have seen. The hold of the mass media over our collective imaginations has never been presented in quite such a funny way, with the possible exception of Paddy Chayefsky's Network.

I genuinely love this movie. The whole process is moving, hilarious, and poignant. Peter Sellers is excellent, actually the whole cast is tremendous. The mansion is staggering and the perfect location for this film gem. And the ending is so true! Life is a state of mind.

The movie is unquestionably one of the best ever produced by American cinematography. I watched very recently an old movie titled "Billy Budd" and based on an H. Melville's novella. The main character of Billy Budd, a young sailor, somehow reminded me of Chancey Gardner. (Both the movie and the novella are highly recommended.)

This film proceeds lanquidly, and you have to suspend your disbelief, but it is a great comedy and a great fable. It is a sad commentary on how so many people follow insipid leaders who speak in platitudes. The screenplay and cast are excellent, and Sellers is magnificent.

Summary

A simple man who has been raised his entire life inside a house watching television is suddenly forced out into the world, and stumbles into all kinds of odd and hilarious situations until he enters into the home of a politician, who mistakes him for being a brilliant strategist. Oscar-nominated performance by Peter Sellers.